Rows of lusciously iced, strawberry-topped cupcakes sit behind the display case at soon-to-open Wastoid Bakery in Oakland’s Temescal District, so perfect they seem to glow.

Mention ‘Arizmendi’ to most Bay Area bread lovers and watch their eyes glaze over as they recall the intoxicating aromas and scrumptious flavors of artisan breads, pastries, cookies and pizzas. Yet as heavenly as these lovingly hand-crafted baked goods are, there’s more that sets Arizmendi bakeries apart from the rest.